Have you heard that an IUD is not suitable for women who have not given birth? Or that it causes infections? It’s time to dispel the myths once and for all, and put the rumors to rest! This guideline is intended to answer all your questions and concerns related to intrauterine devices.
An intrauterine device is an effective and convenient means of preventing pregnancy for up to 5 years. It is a method that has been in use for decades, and it relieves women of the need to remember to buy contraceptives regularly, and all the hassles associated with the pill.
In some cases, the IUD is also used as a treatment for women who suffer from heavy menstruation. It is therefore not surprising that the popularity of the intrauterine device as the preferred means of contraception is on the rise worldwide. But along with its rise in popularity and interest, there has also been an increase in myths surrounding the intrauterine device, and the internet is flooded with half-truths and wholly incorrect information.
If you are considering an IUD as a method of contraception but have heard worrying things, this article is for you. It’s a shame you’re missing out on the many benefits that an intrauterine device has to offer, because of unfounded information you’ve read online or heard from a friend.
So here are some of the most common myths associated with IUDS- and the truth behind them:
Myth # 1: Intrauterine devices are not recommended for women who have not given birth
Fact: An IUD is suitable for women of all ages, whether they have given birth or not. There are several types of devices, including types that are specifically tailored to women who have not given birth. The Ballerine or Kyleenna are examples of small devices, which are especially suitable for the cervical structure of girls and young women who have not given birth. Also, studies show that the use of an intrauterine device among young women reduced the rate of unwanted pregnancies, compared to those who used birth control pills
Myth # 2: An IUD can cause infertility
Fact: Absolutely not. An intrauterine device is a completely reversible device that, once removed, no longer has any effect on fertility. Women who have had an IUD removed can get pregnant at the same rate as women who have never used an IUD.
Fact: The rate of long-term pelvic inflammatory disease in women with the IUD is the same as that of the general population. The chance of pelvic infection is more related to the risk of sexually transmitted infections than using an intrauterine device.
Myth # 4: An IUD increases the chance of an ectopic pregnancy
Fact: An IUD is so effective as contraception that the overall risk of ectopic pregnancy is much lower among women who use the device, compared to women who do not use any form of contraception.
Myth # 5: The device can be felt during sex
Fact: The device should not be noticeable during sexual intercourse. If you or your partner feels it, you can see a doctor and he will cut the wires.
Myth # 6: The device can fall out
Fact: While it is technically possible for the device to be ejected, this is a rare occurrence, occurring in 3% -5% of all cases. If this does happen, another method of contraception should be used until re-installation.
Myth # 7: Inserting the intrauterine device is painful
Fact: As with any medical procedure, pain tolerance varies from patient to patient. Intrauterine device insertion may be unpleasant, but is very short (a few seconds) and the intensity of the pain varies from woman to woman.
Myth # 8: The device causes heavy bleeding during menstruation
Fact: There are two types of devices – with and without hormones. Using a hormonal device not only does not cause increased bleeding, rather the opposite. A hormonal device lightens menstruation and menstrual symptoms, and significantly reduces menstrual bleeding. For most women who use the device, menstruation lasts only two days, and the bleeding is minimal and barely noticeable. For a large portion of women, menstruation will not appear at all for months.
For hormone-free copper devices, in the post-installation period the woman may experience increased bleeding, and sometimes there is an adjustment period that is accompanied by mild bleeding, but these are temporary symptoms, which will resolve within a few weeks.
In conclusion
An IUD is a safe and effective means of contraception for women of all ages and at all stages of life. A professional gynecologist will know how to recommend the right device for you as well.
The information on this site does not replace medical advice or additional medical opinion – therefore it is mandatory to seek professional medical advice before any decision is made. Reading this guideline is not equivalent to seeking medical advice, and any medical actions taken are the responsibility of the individual.
